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Preliminary study on Gongronema latifolium stems fibers as a renewable engineering material for reinforcing polymer composites Okafor, Christian Emeka; Ugwu, Peter Chukwuemeka; Ekwueme, Godspower Onyekachukwu; Akçakale, Nürettin; Ifedigbo, Emmanuel Ekene; Madumere, Augustine Uzodinma
Budapest International Research in Exact Sciences (BirEx) Journal Vol 7, No 1 (2025): Budapest International Research in Exact Sciences, January
Publisher : Budapest International Research and Critics University

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/birex.v7i1.8031

Abstract

The ultimate analysis of Gongronema latifolium plant stem fibers was conducted to evaluate their potential as a renewable engineering material. The study utilized Gongronema latifolium plant fibers sourced from a local farm in Anambra State. Lignin determination was done by using 0.3 g samples prepared alongside 0.3 g for cellulose and crude fiber analyses. Key chemicals used included 72% sulfuric acid for lignin extraction and petroleum ether for defatting. Standard laboratory glassware and equipment, including a muffle furnace for ash content determination and an electric oven for drying, were employed. Ash content was determined from the incineration of 2 g of fibers at 800 °C and the bulk density was determined using a pycnometer. Moisture content was determined through oven drying while crude fibre was carried out using Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) procedure where sample was treated with refluxing acid and alkali solutions of sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide respectively. Cellulose content was determined via the Crampton and Mayrand method, involving centrifugation and acid digestion. Samples for lignin content determination were subjected to 72% sulfuric acid hydrolysis and weights obtained were used for calculation of lignin. The percentages of cellulose content were 12.862%, lignin 10.301%, and hemicellulose 6.005%. The moisture content of stem fibers was determined to be 1.711% from a sample weight of 1.344 g. The ash content was calculated at 10.095% from a sample of 1.466 g. Additionally, the fiber content was found to be 4.249% from a sample weight of 1.624 g, while the bulk density was measured at 0.417 g/ml. These findings indicate a favorable composition for reinforcing materials in composites and other engineering applications. As the findings have revealed, fibers obtained from Gongronema latifolium have notable potential in being used as the substitutes to the conventional engineering materials that would pave way for the creation of environmentally friendly products in the field of material engineering. Further studies are recommended to explore the processing techniques and performance characteristics of these fibers in reinforced composite applications.
Community-based dark tourism development strategy in the disaster-prone area of Mount Semeru, East Java Arinta, Dicky; Sumarmi; Suprianto, Agung; Windayu, Cinde Ririh; Triningsih, Luly; Okafor, Christian Emeka
Jurnal Praksis dan Dedikasi Sosial Vol. 8 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Malang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.17977/um022v8i22025p415-428

Abstract

Pronojiwo District has a geological uniqueness because some areas are close to the Mount Semeru area. The history of the eruption of Mount Semeru on December 4, 2021, which had a wide impact on society and the environment. This study aims to identify the potential and formulate a strategy for developing dark tourism in the slopes of Mount Semeru, especially in Pronojiwo District, Lumajang Regency. The research method uses a qualitative and quantitative descriptive approach to understand the potential, challenges, and management models for dark tourism on the slopes of Mount Semeru. The results of the study show that the potential for dark tourism was identified through spatial analysis of affected locations and mapping of tourist attractions such as Tumpak Sewu, Kapas Biru, Kali Kebo, Sarkawi, and Sumberurip which are within a radius of <5 km from the center of volcanic activity. In addition, Pronojiwo District is in quadrant I (Strength-Opportunity), indicating high potential for growth-based development. The development strategy focuses on two main aspects: improving destination management (attraction, promotion, institutions) and strengthening human resources (training, disaster literacy, and certification of tourism actors). This study shows that community-based dark tourism in the Semeru area can be a model for developing reflective and educational tourism in Indonesia, while also contributing to strengthening the local economy, disaster awareness, and community resilience.